Fence apparatus and related methods

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to a fence or enclosure  165  and related methods for making a fence panel  65  and for connecting the panel  65  to other panels  65  to form a modular type fence  165 . The invention preferably includes a generally planar section  70  of fencing material formed from spaced-apart wires  10, 15 , and at least two non-parallel stiffening portions  80, 85 , deforming the fence section  65  from the aforementioned generally planar configuration  70.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 12/162,987filed Jul. 31, 2008, which claims priority to PCT application Ser. No.PCT/US06/03290 filed Jan. 31, 2006, which claims priority to PCTapplication Ser. No. PCT/US05/29132 filed Aug. 17, 2005, which claimspriority to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/920,650 filed Aug. 18, 2004.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The contents of each U.S. patent or other reference, if any, cited inthis application, are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a fence structure. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to a generally planar fencepanel having surface stiffening means that provide for, among otherthings, improved strength-to-weight characteristics, nesting andconvenient packaging of a plurality of similar panels, and relatedmethods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A wide range of fence types are available for residential and commercialapplications including, among other uses, an enclosure; boarding, orcontainment structure such as a cage, pen, or kennel; a boundary elementfor a yard, playground, or prison; crowd control; safety and securityapplications; and many others.

These fence types may include the quintessential “white picket fence”constructed of wood or plastic, but also commonly include some variationof a reticulated wire or wire mesh panel made of metal. For metalfences, the choice of metal typically is dependent on a number offactors including strength-to-weight-ratio, corrosive resistance, easeof maintenance, and visual appeal. In some applications, the metal wiremay include a plastic or rubber coating.

Metal fences already exist with horizontal bends in the mesh fence.Those bends can add structural rigidity to the mesh, in the horizontaldirection. Bending the fence in this way to add structural rigidity isgenerally a relatively less expensive and stronger alternative than, forexample, using larger diameter wire. Among other alternatives to furtherincrease rigidity and strength, a second horizontal wire or set of wiresmay be positioned parallel to the first set of horizontal wires. Thesepractices (bending and/or extra wires) can avoid or reduce the necessityand costs of using a horizontal tubular rail or other bracing to providestiffness in the fence.

For metal or other types of fences, vertical rigidity in fencing istypically achieved by attaching the fence material to a post or frameconnected to a footing secured to the ground or other fixed object.Generally, one or more collar-type connectors or other fastening devicesfacilitates attachment of the fence material to the post.

Another type of fence that provides substantial horizontal and verticalrigidity can be described as “framed wire fence panels.” These generallyinclude an exterior frame fabricated from tubular metal posts or similarrelatively heavy material, with wire mesh mounted within and coveringthe interior area enclosed by the frame. Although relatively stiff andalthough they provide various benefits, such wire frame panels have anumber of drawbacks. For example, the manufacture of framed wire fencepanels is generally considered labor intensive (and therefore relativelyexpensive), since the process involves manually attaching the wire meshfill to the framing material. In addition, frames such as the familiartubular type post used in many applications substantially increasefreight weight, handling difficulty, and bulkiness, which typicallyresults in greater shipping costs for less fence length when compared toa fence panel without such bulky posts. Even if the tubular posts/framesare shipped separately, the total shipping weight for the assemblyremains the same (although under such a “ship unassembled” approach, theintensive labor needed to assemble the fence is left to the end user).The manufactured wire fencing is commonly packaged in rolls, or cut intosheets or panels prior to shipping.

The present invention addresses some or all of these problems (amongother potential benefits of the invention). As explained herein, variousembodiments of the invention can provide a fence panel having, amongother things, improved shipping efficiency (nestability),strength-to-weight characteristics, and handling capabilities whencompared to existing fence designs known to the inventor. These andother advantages of the apparatus and methods of the present inventionwill become readily apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art, byreading the following disclosure of the invention and viewed in light ofthe accompanying figures.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment of the invention describes a fence and related method formaking a fence panel, and for connecting the panel to other panels toform a modular type fence. Preferably, one embodiment includes agenerally planar surface or body portion, and at least one generallynon-parallel stiffening portion formed in the body portion. Eachstiffening portion may include at least one wire or a bend added to thebody, or a combination of wire(s) and bend(s) to provide rigidity andstrength in at least two directions along the generally planar bodyportion. In many applications, the wires or bends eliminate the need forat least the vertical stability provided by bulky posts. Accordingly,various embodiments provide improved shipping efficiency,strength-to-weight characteristics, and handling capabilities whencompared to fence designs known to the inventor.

The modular fence design/applications may include a second panel thatcan be joined to the first panel by a joining device. In contrast tomany fence connectors, the preferred joining device of the presentinvention preferably permits use of a single attachment device foreither of two types of selective connections between the panels: (a)rotating or (b) non-rotating joining between adjacent fence panels. Theversatility of this type of joining device increases product efficiencyby simplifying assembly, packaging, inventory control, and manufacturingoverhead (less parts have to be designed and manufactured, etc.), andalso greatly enhances assembly options.

For the purpose of summarizing the invention, certain objects andadvantages have been described. It is understood that not all suchobjects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particularembodiment of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the artwill recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in amanner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantageswithout necessarily achieving other objects or advantages.

These and other points will become readily apparent to those skilled inthe art from the following detailed description of the preferredembodiments having reference to the attached figures, the invention notbeing limited to any particular preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates one method of fabricating a fence panel having agenerally planar surface and at least two generally non-parallelstiffening portions formed in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 (c) shows nestable characteristics of one embodiment of thepresent invention compared to FIGS. 2 (a) and (b), which illustratealternative nesting arrangements or characteristics for a prior artfence panel having a post type vertical support. Preferred panelengagement elements 200 are shown in phantom in FIG. 2( c).

FIG. 3 illustrates preferred cuts and bends in a fence panel having agenerally planar surface, to facilitate forming a junction or stiffeningdeformations therein in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3( a) is a section view of a fence panel showing one embodiment ofa stiffening deformation, as it may be formed using the cuts and bendsshown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a fence panel having a generally planarsurface and at least two generally non-parallel stiffening portionsdeforming the fence section from the generally planar configuration, allin accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is the fence panel of FIG. 4 further showing an optional supportlink 125 connected between spaced apart wires of a junction formed inthe fence panel.

FIG. 6 is an elevation view of the fence panel of FIG. 4, as the panelmight appear in an erected position.

FIGS. 7( a)-(b) show some of the many alternative cross-sectionalembodiments of the stiffening means and positioning thereof along afence panel having a generally planar surface, that may be used invarious embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 8 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention, which includeslatitudinal and/or longitudinal wire(s) of a gauge that is differentfrom other wires within the fence panel.

FIG. 9 shows a prior art fence panel with an augmented horizontalsupport means.

FIG. 10( a)-(c) shows how a prior art fence panel (in solid lines) maybe modified (by adding the elements shown in phantom) to constituteanother embodiment of the invention, by adding a vertical wire along thegeneral edge of the panel. FIG. 10( b) is a top view of the fence panelof FIG. 10( a), and FIG. 10( c) is an end view of the fence panel ofFIG. 10( a).

FIGS. 11( a)-(c) are similar to FIGS. 10( a)-(c), but shows the addedwires in solid lines.

FIGS. 12( a)-(c) are a perspective view (12(a)) and a side view 12(b) ofan insert that may be used alone or in combination with other stiffeningmeans as described herein. FIG. 12(c) is similar to FIG. 12( b), butillustrates one of the many other embodiments of stiffening means bywhich the invention may be practiced.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an enclosure constructed of variousfence panels, each formed from spaced-apart wires, and having at leasttwo non-parallel stiffening means deforming the fence panel from thepanel's generally planar configuration.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view taken along line 14 in FIG. 21,and illustrates a joining device in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view taken along line 15 in FIG. 21,and shows an alternative embodiment of a joining device, positioned at ajunction of the fence panel.

FIG. 15( a) is an elevation view of a preferred bolt assembly that maybe used in joining devices such as those of FIG. 15.

FIG. 16 illustrates the joining device of FIG. 15, as it may bepositioned near the top of a fence panel.

FIG. 17 shows an insert for removable attachment of an anchoring deviceto a fence panel.

FIG. 18 illustrates another of the many embodiments of a joining devicein accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 19 illustrates one of the many possible arrangements of multiplefence panels in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 20 illustrates the range of motion of a fence panel according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a side view of one embodiment of a fence panel assembly,having a plurality of joining devices positioned to provide selectiverotating and non-rotating attachment of a first panel and second panel.

FIG. 22 is an enlarged perspective view taken along line 22 in FIG. 21,and shows one of the many latch assemblies that can be used inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 23 shows preferred cuts in a fence panel having a generally planarsurface to form a riser in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 24 is a section view taken along line 24 in FIG. 25, and showsstill another of the many embodiments and locations of a riser, twojoining devices, and multiple fence panels.

FIG. 25 is a side view showing another of the many alternativeembodiments of the invention, and the location of risers, joiningdevices, and multiple fence panels.

FIGS. 26( a)-(b) illustrate some of the many alternative embodiments ofjoining devices of the invention.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view that illustrates a still furtheralternative joining device embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view that shows yet another alternativeembodiment of a joining device.

FIGS. 29( a)-(b) illustrate further variations or brackets or joiningdevice in accordance with one of the many other embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 30 shows a substantially cylindrical end unit or portion formed ina fence panel.

FIGS. 31( a)-(c) show individual wires that may be formed and bent priorforming the panel as described herein.

FIGS. 32( a)-(e) show a fence panel having a generally planar surfaceand at least two generally non-parallel stiffening portions deformingthe fence section from the generally planar configuration, all inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 33( a)-(l) show various views of alternative embodiments of aninsert and connection thereof to the spaced-apart wires that may be usedalone or in combination with other stiffening means as described herein.In particular, FIGS. 33( d)-(g) illustrate some of the many alternativeembodiments of the V-shaped section each providing stiffening supportfor the panel.

FIGS. 34( a)-(e) illustrate further variations of brackets or joiningdevices in accordance with one of the many other embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 35( a)-(c) show further variations of brackets or joining devicesin accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 36( a)-(d) show further variations of brackets or joining devicesin accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 37( a)-(d) show various embodiments of a fence including a firstpanel having a first bend and a second bend formed by spaced-apart wiresin the a generally planar surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described withreferences to the accompanying Figures, with like reference numeralsreferring to like elements throughout. The terminology used in thedescription presented is not intended to be interpreted in any limitedor restrictive manner, simply because it is being utilized inconjunction with a detailed description of certain embodiments of theinvention. Furthermore, various embodiments of the invention (whether ornot specifically described) may include novel features, no single one ofwhich may be solely responsible for its desirable attributes or whichmay be essential to practicing the invention. The description herein andclaims below are instead intended to describe and define the inventionin a manner supporting the broadest scope of coverage to which theclaims may be lawfully entitled.

General wire mesh or reticulated wire structure making methods such asthose described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,401,319 to Roemer and U.S. Pat. No.3,396,761 to Laswell are well-known in the art. Accordingly, thosegeneral teachings are incorporated by reference herein, and whereapplicable, various aspects of fence panel fabrication process or methodare only briefly discussed herein.

As shown in FIG. 1 of the instant drawings, one fence panelfabrication/making method 5 of the present invention may include thevarious combinations of the following steps: (1) providing a first setof generally parallel spaced-apart wires, (2) providing a second set ofgenerally parallel spaced-apart wires, (3) positioning the second set ofwires transverse to the first set of wires to form points of transverseintersection between the first set of wires and the second set of wires,(4) connecting the first set of wires to the second set of wires along aplurality of points of transverse intersection, (5) cutting a portion ofthe first set of wires and the second set of wires, (6) removing the cutportion, and (6) bending the first set of wires and the second set ofwires to form a generally planar section of fencing material formed fromspaced-apart wires, and having at least two non-parallel bends deformingthe fence section from the generally planar configuration to impartstructural stability to the fence panel by placing at least one wireoutside of the generally planar surface.

For convenience, each of the foregoing process or method steps isdescribed in a particular sequence. For example, a first step may berecited as providing a first set of generally parallel spaced-apartwires. However, the invention can include methods that are subsets ofthe foregoing steps, and/or may involve those steps in a differentorder. By way of example, other methods of the invention may bepracticed beginning after the first set of generally parallelspaced-apart wires is provided. Furthermore, the steps involved in anyparticular embodiment of the inventive method can be affected by thecontinuation, or interruption of other step(s) that were previouslystarted. In other words, the precise steps within the various methods ofthe invention can be dependent on a number of factors, including theinitial starting condition of the fence panel or any portion of thedescribed fence panel and the system's desired final condition or state.By way of further examples, the process may begin by connecting thefirst set of wires to the second set of wires or the process may beginby bending the first set of wires and second set of wires to form afence panel as described herein. Therefore, although a process or methodis described with steps occurring in a certain order, the specific orderof the steps, or any continuation or interruption between steps, is notnecessarily required.

As further shown in FIG. 1, the steps of providing a first set ofgenerally parallel spaced-apart wires 10 and a second set of generallyparallel spaced-apart wires 15 preferably include latitudinal andlongitudinal wires fed from racks. A first set of spaced apart wires 10(latitudinal) is preferably fed from a plurality of racks 20 andtraverse a pathway along a forming apparatus 25 that may include, amongother features, latitudinal straightening rollers 30. If utilized, thestraightening rollers 30 preferably align or adjust the wire toeliminate any waviness remaining in the wires after being unwound fromthe racks 20 or spools.

Also preferably, a second set of spaced-apart wires 15 (longitudinal) issimilarly fed from a plurality of racks 35 and straightened 40 prior tobeing positioned relative to the latitudinal wires 10. In the preferredmethods, the longitudinal wires 15 are positioned generally transverseto the latitudinal wires 10 forming transverse intersections 45 in agenerally planar wire surface. Among the many alternative methods of theinvention, a plurality of longitudinal wires 15 may be straightened 40and pre-cut (not shown) to a desired length and fed from a single rack(negating the use of a plurality of feeding and straightening devices).

As shown in FIGS. 31( a)-(c), in an alternative embodiment, latitudinaland/or longitudinal wires 10, 15 may be preformed with bends, thenindividually set in place, and connect together via welding or othermeans at intersecting points between the latitudinal and longitudinalwires 10, 15 to form a fence panel having a generally planar surfaceformed by spaced apart wires, and a first bend and a second bend formedin the surface.

The latitudinal and longitudinal wires 10, 15 of each set alsopreferably are periodically spaced an equal distance from other wireswithin the set, and may further include wire(s) of different gauge 50periodically spaced from each other. The different gauge wire(s) 50 maybe fed from at least one rack 41, 42 located along the forming apparatus25.

In a preferred embodiment, smaller gauge wire (larger diameter) forms atleast a section of at least one stiffening portion formed within thefence panel. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand thatthe exact number and spacing/location of the latitudinal, longitudinal,and alternative wire gauge racks 20, 35, 41, 42 can be in any convenientposition and configuration, and may vary depending on variousmanufacturing and application requirements. Furthermore, the exact angleof transverse intersection between the first set of wires 10 and thesecond set of wires 15 as well as the gauge and periodic spacing ofwires within the first set and/or the second set 10, 15 will depend onvarious factors, including, among other things, the fence panel'sintended residential or commercial or other application. For example, inone embodiment, at least some of the spaced-apart wires 10, 15 traverseone another at an approximate right angle.

Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the inventioncan be practiced with any suitable materials and a variety of suitablefabrication methods, including ones other than metal (such as plastics)and ones other than welding (such as gluing or injection molding or thelike). Preferably, however, welding heads 55 connect/weld the first setof wires 10 to the second set of wires 15 by well-known welding methodsalong a plurality of points of transverse intersection 45. Welding heads55 may programmatically adjust to accommodate the variance of theheavier gauge wire 50. Alternatively, a secondary set of welding heads57 may be incorporated to weld the intersections 45 of the heavier gaugewire 50.

Certain metal wire types or other materials may require specializedjoining methods. Likewise, and as indicated above, plastic wire panelshaving latitudinal and longitudinal or otherwise transverse wire setsmay be prefabricated as a single integral piece, or as individual wiresets transversely positioned to each other and joined by heating orsimilar bonding methods.

In one embodiment, the joined-together wire assembly (comprising thefirst and second set of spaced-apart wires 10, 15) is periodically cutto a desired length by a sheer cutting press 60.

In the preferred forming process 5, the generally planar surface ispreferably bent by a bending press 90 to form at least one generallylinear bend 80 substantially across the generally planar surface 70,such that the bend 80 is oriented in a substantially vertical directionwhen the fence panel 65 is erected. A second bend 85, generally orientedin the horizontal direction, may be added, for example, by a bendingpress 75 bending the fence panel 65 along the horizontal plane of thegenerally planar surface 70.

The bend(s) 80, 85 or other stiffening means, described herein,preferably impart structural stability to the fence panel 65 in at leastthe vertical direction. This preferably obviates, or at least reduces,the need for secondary support such as a post or frame connected to afooting secured to the ground or other fixed object.

The preferred bending of the generally planar section 70 of fencingmaterial in at least two directions results in a fence panel 65 havingat least two non-parallel bends 80, 85 deforming the fence section 65from the generally planar configuration 70. During the forming process5, the spaced-apart wires 10, 15 may be woven (not shown) to form agenerally planar section of mesh. The wire mesh of such alternativeembodiments also preferably includes at least two non-parallel bendsdeforming the mesh section from the generally planar configuration.

As used herein, the term “generally planar” is a broad term generallyused in its ordinary meaning, “a surface at which the curvature iszero”, and pertains to the overall surface appearance regardless ofwhether irregularities or bends form a portion of that overall surfaceappearance. For example, a woven reticulated or netlike wire mesh fencetypically includes wires periodically bent to accommodate the fence'swoven features. However, the overall surface appearance of such a fenceis considered “generally planar” within the context of the presentinvention.

Accordingly, certain embodiments of the invention may be described asproviding or comprising a fence section having a generally planar bodyportion 65, and at least two generally linear non-parallel deformedstiffening portions 80, 85 formed in the body portion 65. The preferredstiffening portions 80, 85 are deformed so as to be distinct from themajority of the generally planar body portion 65.

Alternatively, the invention may be described as a fence constructionhaving a generally planar body portion 65 forming the majority of thearea of the construction, and at least two generally linear non-paralleldeformed stiffening portions 80, 85 formed within the body portion 65.In such alternative descriptions, the stiffening portions 80, 85 form aminority of the construction and preferably are distinct from themajority of the generally planar body portion 65.

As indicated above, the bends 80, 85 or other stiffening meanspreferably enhance structural stability/rigidity of the panel 65 in atleast one linear direction. Strengthening the fence by incorporatingbending into the body of the fence is generally a stronger andlighter-weight alternative than using larger diameter wire, andrelatively less expensive (to manufacture, handle, store, and ship) thanusing a horizontal tubular post, rail, or brace to gain stiffness in thefence.

By eliminating or reducing the need for at least vertical stiffening orsupport such as a post, the fence panel 65, described herein, provides,among other things, improved shipping efficiency (nestability), andhandling capabilities when compared to existing fence designs known bythe inventor. This improved nestability is illustrated by comparingprior art systems in FIGS. 2( a) and 2(b) to the preferred nested stackof panels of the invention shown in FIG. 2( c).

Improved shipping efficiency is realized in the present inventionbecause the bend(s) 80, 85 or stiffening means of one fence panel 65 iscapable of relatively snugly fitting within another fence panel having asimilarly shaped bend and/or stiffening means (nestability). Nestabilityof the present invention typically reduces the overall package dimension(for storing and/or transporting the panels of the invention) comparedto fence panels having posts that are typically stacked or staggered toaccommodate shipping. Due to the nestability of at least one embodimentof the present invention, more linear feet of fence panel can typicallybe shipped when compared to known stacked or staggered fence panelsoccupying the same space.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 2( a)-(b), the tubular post supports 95(such as those commonly shipped with many fence panels 100) can bestacked directly over each other or can be staggered, depending onsupport frame placement. Accordingly, each successively placed fencepanel 100 increases the stacked or staggered packing height of knowndevices by approximately the diameter of the support frame 95. Incontrast, according to one embodiment of the present invention shown inFIG. 2( c), each successively added fence panel only increases thepacking height of the nested panels 65 by approximately the diameter(gauge) of the wires used in the panel. The exact packing space savingsrealized will depend on various factors, including, for example, wiregauge, bend height, sizing of optional engagement or joining device(which is indicated as phantom element 200 in FIG. 2( c)), and the totalnumber of panels stacked together within a single package.

In addition to package dimensions (which can affect storage, handling,transport, display, and other economic aspects of fence panelsgenerally), panel weight is typically another consideration or factor inanalyzing shipping efficiency and cost. In this regard, frames such asthe familiar tubular type post 95 used in many applicationssubstantially increase freight weight, handling difficulty, andbulkiness, resulting in greater shipping costs for less linear fencelength when compared to the panels such as panel fence 65 that can beachieved by the present invention. Even for prior art systems in whichthe tubular posts 95 are shipped separately, overall shipping weightremains the same while the intensive labor needed to assemble the fenceis left to the end user.

Returning now to FIG. 1, the fence forming process 5 may further includecutting and removing a portion 110 of the first set of wires and thesecond set of wires 10, 15, and bending a portion of the first set andsecond set of wires 10, 15 to form a fence panel 65 as generallydescribed herein. If the fence panel is only going to be bent in asingle direction or on a single axis (or in a manner so that no bendsintersect with each other), there typically will not be a need to cutand/or remove any portion of the wires as described herein.

For a preferred embodiment of the invention that incorporates a firstbend 80 and a second bend 85, however, cutting at locations such as56A-D along “cut lines” 105 and removing a portion 110 of the first setand second set of wires 10, 15, as shown in FIG. 3, facilitatesformation of a junction 115 at the location where the first bend 80 andthe second bend 85 intersect (see FIGS. 3 and 4). This cutting can beaccomplished in any suitable manner, including manually orautomatically. Preferably, it is part of an automated process such asillustrated in FIG. 1, in a step such as step 60. As explained furtherbelow, the precise locations of the cut lines 105 and the resulting cuts56A-D can vary depending on the depths of the strengthening bends in thefence panel and other factors (for shallower bends, less material 110would need to be removed). Selected transverse wire intersections 46A,46B may not be welded during process by selectively programming weldingheads 55, 57 to skip those intersecting sets of wires 45 furtherfacilitating the removal of a portion of the wire 110.

Intersecting bends of different depths may be accommodated by alteringthe position of the cut lines 105 leaving the wires long enough to beangled up or down to meet the intersecting wire. Preferably the cutsimprove the ease of forming intersecting bends in the panel, and allowthe cut wires to be readily brought together at the intersecting bendsin the fence panel (see FIG. 4) and even joined together at thoselocations by welding or the like.

Persons of ordinary skill in the art will also understand, however, thatthe preferred intersecting bends of the invention can be formed withoutany such cutting or removal of portions 110. Although such “uncut”embodiments are not illustrated, persons of ordinary skill in the artwill understand that they would result in a similar final configuration,but that the material 110 would remain attached and would have to befolded/smashed into the intersection of the bends. In such embodiments,the folded material 110 might adversely limit the nestability of aplurality of similar panels, and might also affect the strength andother properties of the panel.

FIG. 3 also includes phantom lines 81 showing preferred breaklines orbendlines for forming the first bend 80 and the second bend 85 along thesides 130, 135 of the panel 65. Persons of ordinary skill in the artwill understand that these are merely illustrative, and that the bendsor other stiffening portions of the panel can be formed in any suitablemanner, as discussed elsewhere herein.

As shown in FIGS. 21 and 16, one or more of the first set and the secondset of wires 10, 15 may also be cut or otherwise formed as a securityextension 120 along at least a portion of one side of the fence panel65. For example, positioning of a security extension 120 at the top of afence panel 65 may act as a deterrent to potential trespassers (whomight try to climb over the fence), while a security extension 120positioned at the bottom (not shown) of a fence panel 65 may deteranimals from accessing such areas as a garden or flower bed. Persons ofordinary skill in the art will understand that any suitable securityextension may be used. Examples of such extensions include, amongothers, (a) attaching razor wire or barbed wire to the fence panel formore extreme applications, (b) simply allowing some or all of the panelwires in one direction to extend beyond an outermost transverse wireand/or cutting those extensions at an angle to provide somewhat sharp“points” that extend outwardly from the panel (see FIGS. 21 and 16), or(c) attaching other finer mesh grids or extensions.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the fence panel 65 may include afirst bend 80 (preferably having a substantially continuous uniformheight “h” in a first linear direction “d”) and a second bend 85(preferably having a substantially uniform height “h1” in a secondlinear direction “d1”). In the preferred methods and apparatus of theinvention, bending the planar surface 70 to form the first bend 80, thesecond bend 85, and the junction 115 between the first bend 80 and thesecond bend 85 typically causes each to protrude from the generallyplanar surface 70. The formed junction 115 may include an optionalsupport link 125 connected between spaced-apart wires of the junction115, as shown in FIG. 5. For metal embodiments, the link 125 typicallywould be added after the intersection of FIG. 4 has been formed.

As further shown in FIG. 5, the shape of the first bend 80 and thesecond bend 85 are each preferably substantially triangular incross-section, and each bend 80, 85 has substantially the same heightalong its length. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, preferably, the firstbend 80 is located generally along a first edge 130 of the panel, andthe second bend 85 is located generally along a second edge 135 of thefirst panel. As further shown in FIG. 6, the generally linearnon-parallel deformed stiffening portions or bends 80, 85 preferablyextend the entire length of a particular panel 65.

Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 31( a) and 32(a)-(d), the first bend 80may be located generally inset from the first edge 130 of the panel, andthe second bend 85 may be located generally inset from the second edge135 of the panel. As further shown in FIGS. 32( a)-(d), the first bend80 and second bend 85 may form a portion of a bend generally inset froman edge of the panel (FIG. 32( a)), a portion of a bend inset andgenerally positioned near a corner of the panel (FIG. 32 (b)), a portionof a center cross bend located generally near the center of the panel(FIG. 32( c)), and a portion of a bend inset and generally extending thelength of panel.

Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand that thecross-sectional shape, length, non-parallel positioning (angle ofseparation/intersection), and path or continuation of any bend in anyparticular direction may vary according to a variety of factorsincluding, among other things, the fence panel's intended residential orcommercial application. Among other things, curvilinear bend paths couldbe utilized, and could even form aesthetic patterns within the panel orat its edges (as further discussed below, one such example is shown asthe bottom pattern in FIG. 7( b)).

For example, as shown in FIG. 7( a), the cross-section of a bend orstiffening means of each panel may be substantially curved, round,square, hyperbolic, or trapezoidal in shape, to name a few. Furthermore,the spacing and angle of intersection between the wires forming thestiffening portion(s) may include, among others, those further shown inFIG. 7( b).

As previously mentioned, the generally planar surface 70 forming thefence panel 65 may include latitudinal or longitudinal wires 10, 15having a variety of different gauges mixed or arranged within therespective set of wires. In this regard, in one embodiment, smallergauge (thicker) wire preferably comprises a section/portion of thestiffening means, as thicker wires can provide greater strength thanthinner wires (persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand thatvariations in wire type can also or alternatively be used to affect theproperties of the panel at various locations thereon). FIG. 3illustrates the preferred “thicker” wires or other elements used inconjunction with the stiffening portions of the panel. As shown, thethree right-most and the three bottom-most wires are thicker than theupper and left-most wires. Persons of ordinary skill in the art willunderstand that, in other embodiments, the wires or other elements canbe uniform or have other relative sizes.

As shown by the heavy/darker lines in FIG. 8 and larger diameter circlesin FIG. 3( a) (both representing the thicker wires in FIG. 3), thethicker wire 140 preferably forms at least a portion/segment of thefirst bend 80 and the second bend 85 along the sides 130, 135 of thepanel 65 (additional bends 136 and 137 are illustrated on the opposingedges of the panel in FIG. 8, and may be used to provide even furtherstiffening and other beneficial properties, although for someapplications those additional bends may not be necessary or desired). Inthis manner, the thicker wire 140 adds further stability to the panel 65(as compared to thinner wire).

Alternatively or additionally, a single wire or plurality of wires maybe added (beyond the normally spaced pattern of the wire mesh) to thegenerally planar surface 70, or a shaped material, such as iron orplastic, may be added to increase the structural stability to the panel.Depending on the application, the addition of these stiffening/supportwires or other materials may reduce or eliminate the need for theintersecting “bend” stiffeners. For example, FIG. 9 shows a typicalknown reticulated wire fence panel 101 with an augmented horizontalsupport means 145. FIGS. 10( a)-(c) shows how that known panel from FIG.9 might be modified to practice the invention, such as by adding one ormore vertical wires 150 (indicated by dotted lines) outside thegenerally planar surface. The vertically oriented wire 150 may be usedalone or in combination with the horizontal wire 145 to providestiffening along at least the vertical plane of the fence panel.Finally, FIG. 11 shows the finished assembly that results from actuallyincluding the “additional stiffening” wires shown in phantom in FIG. 10.Thus, FIG. 11 illustrates various views of a generally planar surface 70of a fence panel 65 having vertical and horizontal stiffening means inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention.

As shown in FIG. 12( a), a generally triangular or V-shaped insert 155may be constructed of metal, plastic, or a similar material, and may beused alone or in combination with other stiffening means (such as thosedescribed herein) to provide rigidity in a generally vertical and/orhorizontal direction along the generally planar surface 70. For example,as shown in FIG. 12( a), the V-shaped insert 155 is positioned in onebend 80, while a second bend 85 formed in the panel 65 has no suchinsert. In this example, the generally planar body 70 portion includesat least two generally linear non-parallel deformed stiffening portions80, 85, and a V-shaped insert 155 formed, pressed, welded, or otherwiseattached in the body portion 65.

FIG. 12( b) illustrates the concept of the stiffening portions 80, 85,155 (generally oriented along the horizontal and vertical edge) beingdeformed so as to be distinct from the majority of the generally planarbody portion 70. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understandthat (similar to other stiffening means, including the bends 80, 85described herein) the shape, length, structure (perforated or solid) andattachment of the insert 155 to the generally planar surface 70 of thefence panel 65 may vary according to the panel's intended application.Among other things, inserts or supplemental elements, such as insert155, may extend less than the full length of the fence panel, or aplurality of such insert elements may be used spaced from each otheralong a bend or stacked/sandwiched upon each other within a single bend,to provide a wide variety of specifically located strengthening to thepanel. Such inserts can be attached to or otherwise retained inrelationship to the panel in any suitable manner (via welding, gluing,interference fit, etc.). Persons of ordinary skill in the art willunderstand that the nature of the attachment can affect the strength andother properties of the bend/insert area of the fence panel. Forexample, although insert 155 is shown both as extending acrosssubstantially the entire cross-sectional “V” of deformation or bend 80and as extending substantially the full length of the panel 65, personsof ordinary skill in the art will understand that additional oralternative stiffening members such as insert 155 can be formed in anyof a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, or combinationsthereof, even within a single bend or deformation 80. An example of asmaller sized insert 450 is shown in FIG. 32( a). Such an insert 450,used to reinforce or strengthen the bend may be positioned anywherealong the first bend 80 or second bend 85.

Similarly, FIG. 12( c) shows a generally triangular or V-shaped section155 used alone or in combination with other stiffening means (such asthose described herein) to provide rigidity in a generally verticaland/or horizontal direction along the generally planar surface 70. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 12( c), the V-shaped section 155 is positionedand attached in place by welding or other suitable means to form onebend 80, while a second bend 85 is formed in the panel 65 by deformingthe mesh, as previously described herein.

The generally triangular or V-shaped section 155 or stiffening means maybe joined to form corner sections as shown in FIGS. 33( a) and 33(b).Likewise, generally triangular sections 115 may be joined to formt-style connections that may be located along an edge of the panel orinset from the edge. FIGS. 33( d)-(g) illustrate some of the manyalternative embodiments of the V-shaped section each providingstiffening support for the panel.

As shown in FIGS. 33( h)-(l) each of the aforementioned V-shapedsections 155 provide for improved nestability when stacking similarlyconfigured panels. Such V-shaped sections 155 may be joined to thespaced-apart wires 10, 15 by weaving chain link 460 through holes 455punched in the V-shaped section 155 (FIG. 33( h)), welding or a similarmethod (FIG. 33( i)), a compression or friction fit by sliding thespaced apart wires 10, 15 through corresponding holes 455 in theV-shaped (FIG. 33( j)), by a clamping or positioning the spaced apartwires 10, 15 between mating halves of a V-shaped configuration (FIG. 33(k)), or by a tight-fit facilitated by the material memory of theV-shaped section that is force open to accept the spaced-apart wires 10,15 then returns to generally its original position to secure the wires10, 15 in place.

Alternative embodiments of the invention may include a fence panel 65having a generally planar body portion 70 formed by means other thanspaced-apart wires 10, 15. For example, the generally planar bodyportion 65 may be formed or cut from a single sheet of metal, plastic,or similar malleable material (not shown). The single piece body portionmay include at least two non-parallel stiffening portions or bendshammered, pounded, pressed, molded, or otherwise deformed into the body65.

As shown in FIG. 13, fence panels embodying the invention may bemanufactured of various lengths and/or widths and/or configurations, andmay be joined together to form various fence patterns or enclosures, orother related elements and structures. Persons of ordinary skill in theart will understand that the size and configuration of the fenceelements, as well as the assembly of panels/elements together, can beany of a virtually infinite variety. For example, the panels 65 forminga sidewall or gate/door may be hinged or otherwise joined together by ajoining device 160 to form an enclosure 165; boarding or containmentstructure such as a cage, pen, or kennel; or as a boundary element in ayard, playground, or prison, to name a few. Persons of ordinary skill inthe art will understand that any single side or all the sides of astructure may contain embodiments or features of the invention, asdescribed herein (thus, fence portions incorporating the invention maybe combined with other fence-type elements, or attached to independentbuildings/walls/etc.). For example, a cage may have at least one sideformed at least in part from a panel of the invention. Alternatively,the cage may include a plurality of sides formed from panelsincorporating the invention.

FIG. 21 illustrates one of the many ways that various aspects of theinvention can be incorporated into more complex assemblies andstructures. In FIG. 21, a panel 185 may be configured as a door or gate310, and is pivotably mounted and retained within a larger panel 175.Some of the preferred details of this exemplary structure are shown inother drawings. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand,however, that panels incorporating the invention might be used for onlyone part of such an assembly (e.g., only the gate/door or only thesurrounding panel), while conventional or other technologies might beused for the other components of the assembly.

For example, FIG. 14 illustrates one of the many types of joiningdevices for joining a generally planar panel to another thing (such as awall, a post, or another panel). In one embodiment, the joining device160 includes a first component 170 for engaging a first fence panel 175,as described herein, and a second component 180 for joining a secondfence panel 185, as described herein. Preferably the first and thesecond components 170, 180 each include a housing 200, 210 that isjoined together pivotably by a connecting device 191 or alternativelythe connecting device 190 shown in FIG. 15( a). Alternatively, and asindicated above, persons of ordinary skill in the art will understandthat the joining device 160 may be connected to a first panel havingfeatures of the invention described herein and a second panel of knownconstruction, or a wall or other thing, as noted above.

Although the joining of a fence panel to another thing is describedherein with reference to specific drawings, persons of ordinary skill inthe art will understand that certain aspects of the invention can bepracticed with a wide variety of connecting or joining devices, and thatthose devices can position the panel in a “fixed” relationship with thething or in a “dynamic” relationship (permitting movement such as hingedrotation or otherwise of the panel with respect to the thing). Anysuitable method and apparatus for joining or connecting can be used, andthe specific apparatus and method used in any given application may beaffixed to the panel in any suitable manner as well (for example, bywelding, gluing, screwing, clamping, integrally forming the joiningpiece with the panel, etc.).

As will be apparent from the further drawings and the followingdescription (showing, for example, the preferably easy switch betweenengaging toothed ends of the components 200, 210 for a fixed engagement,as compared with smooth ends for a rotatable engagement), the preferredjoining device 160 in the example of FIG. 14 provides great flexibilityof use in a variety of applications. Among other things, the samecomponents may be selected between either (a) hinged/moving attachmentof the panel or (b) a fixed attachment. Persons of ordinary skill in theart will understand that alternative joining/connecting devices can varygreatly, especially if they are not intended to provide the same degreeof flexibility of use as the one shown in FIG. 14.

For ease of describing the joining device 160 in the example of FIG. 14,it will be understood that except for differences specifically describedherein, the description of the invention as applied to the firstcomponent 170 (such as having a first engagement surface correspondingto at least a portion of the cross-sectional shape of one of the firstbend and the second bend) generally also applies to the second component180.

The first component 170 of the joining device 160 preferably includes afirst engagement element, such as surface 195, for engaging the firstpanel 175, and a first housing 200 connected to the first engagementsurface 195 and adapted to receive the connecting device 191. Similarly,the second component 180 may include a second engagement element, suchas surface 205, for engaging the second panel 185, and a second housing210 connected to the second engagement surface 205 and adapted toreceive the connecting device 191. In one embodiment, the connectingdevice 191 (typically a bolt, screw, rod, hinge pin, or similarlyadapted structure) is received within the first housing 200 and thesecond housing 210 to attach the first housing 200 to the second housing210, thereby attaching the first panel 175 to the second panel 185.

For most or all embodiments, including especially those in which thefence panel's stiffening elements are not at the panel edges or areprovided in some manner other than bending the panel, the location onthe panel at which the joining/connecting member is affixed and themeans for that affixing can vary widely. For many embodiments (includingeven panel embodiments that include stiffening bends at the edges of thepanels), a plurality of joining/connecting members can be used and theirspacing/positioning along the edge or otherwise on the panel can varywidely, depending on the demands of the application. For example, panelsof the invention can be used as a gate/door, a frame for the door/gate,or both, and joining devices can be provided that function similarly tohinges on a door. Joining devices could extend into and be clamped tothe central web or mesh of the panel, with a “hinge” portion extendingoutwardly toward the point of connection with the adjacent panel orthing.

As mentioned above, in the example shown in FIG. 21 and FIGS. 14-20, twopanels of the invention are joined in a gate/frame relationship. Thefirst panel 175 forms the frame (which is just one example of the manyshapes in which the panels of the invention can be provided). In FIG.21, that frame panel 175 includes a perimeter of strengthening bends aspreviously described, but also includes an opening 176 formed within thebody of the panel. In FIG. 21, the opening 176 preferably is completelybordered by strengthening bends, for strength and other purposes, suchas described herein. To form the central strengthening bend 177, wire178 (FIG. 14) preferably is cut to, or otherwise provided in, anappropriate length to reach a corresponding transverse wire 86 in bend85, to permit welding or other attachment of those two wires at thatlocation. The other end of wire 178 preferably is similarly configuredand assembled to the top stiffening bend 179 (FIG. 21) in panel 175.

A preferred method of fabricating such a joint/junction is shown in FIG.23 and discussed below, and illustrates one of the many ways to make thepreferred cuts, weld, and bend points on a fence panel 65 for theembodiment of a riser 345, such as that shown in FIGS. 14 and 21. Amongthe alternatives to that approach, the frame around the door/gate 310may be integrally formed with the rest of the sidewall 305. Among otherthings, this would impact the spacing of the various transverse wires inthe frame around the door 310.

Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand that, depending onthe application, one or more openings, such as opening 176, may beprovided within a panel, may or may not be “bordered” with strengtheningbends, and may or may not be “filled” with any object, such as apanel/gate/door.

In FIG. 14, the first engagement surface 195 can be engaged with thepanel 175 in any suitable manner, but is preferably shaped to correspondto the shape of at least a portion of the bend 177 of the first panel175.

Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand that similar oridentical devices can be positioned at a wide variety of locations onpanels, such as panel 175, including on or near the first bend 80 andthe second bend 85, to facilitate pivotal or other junctions betweenpanels or other components. An example of the many varieties of suchengagements can be seen by comparing FIGS. 14 and 15. In FIG. 14, thefirst engagement surface 195 is configured to correspond in shape andsize to a portion of the side of the central bend 177. This approachmight be useful, for example, for bend shapes that are substantiallytriangular in cross-section (to mount the engagement elements in such anarea, the first engagement surface 195 would preferably have acorresponding substantially triangular cross-sectional shape). However,as shown in FIG. 15, if the first engagement surface 195 is attached atthe junction 115 of a bend 80 and the second bend 85, the firstengagement surface 195 would preferably have a shape somewhat differentfrom substantially triangular in cross-section (such as a somewhattrapezoidal shape, with possibly a “return” arm 87 to provide additionalsupport and strength to the assembly and/or engagement area/elements).In contrast or in addition to the joining device being positioned nearthe bottom of a fence panel (as shown in FIG. 15), the joining device160 may be adapted to be positioned generally at the top of the fencepanel (as shown in FIG. 16) or anywhere along the fence panel asrequired by a particular application.

The first engagement component 170 is preferably attached to the firstbend 80 or the second bend 85 by welding. Other attachment means, suchas clamping, bonding, press fitting, or the like may be utilized. In oneembodiment, shown in FIG. 2, permanent attachment of the first component170 to the fence panel 65 still allows for nesting during shipping ormoving of the invention, as described herein (the preferred engagementelements 200 are shown in phantom in FIG. 2, as certain embodiments ofthe invention may be fabricated without such joining or engagementelements).

The preferred joining device 160 of the present invention generallyfunctions to join fence panels 65 in a freestanding installation (notattached to the ground) while the stiffening portions provide stability.Furthermore, when joining device 160 joins panels 65 in a fixed ornon-rotational connection, a synergistic stabilizing affect is achievedbetween adjacent panels.

As noted above, the engagement elements may be attached to the panels inany suitable manner, including removable, permanent, etc. One such“removable/temporary” example is shown in FIG. 17, made of metal,plastic or similar material and may be removably attached to the fencepanel 65 by inserting it into the stiffening bend 80. The insert 220 maybe shaped to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of one of the fencepanel bends and, together with similarly shaped clamping section 221 andconnecting means 225, such as a nut, bolt, screw, bracket, pin, etc.,connect the insert 220 to the fence panel 65 and/or bend. The insert 220also may extend upwardly (as shown) or in another direction (forembodiments not shown, such as horizontally-oriented inserts 220) fromthe panel 65 to connect the fence panel 65 to another panel (not shown),another element of the invention, as described herein, and/or to theground or other relatively secure surface 230, such as a wall, floor, orsupport base. For engagement with the ground (such as indicated in FIG.17 by the gray stake extending into the material below the panel), theinsert 220 can be driven or otherwise inserted into the ground, and thepanel assembled to the resulting “stake”.

FIG. 18 shows another of the many alternative ways to attachengagement/joining elements to panels of the invention, showing how thefirst component 170 may be removably or permanently attached to a fencepanel, such as panel 65. The preferably two-piece apparatus 235, similarin many ways to a preferred latch assembly embodiment described below,includes a first section 240 and a second section 245. Each section 240,245 preferably has appropriately spaced grooves 250 (a)-(b), 255(a)-(b)to receive correspondingly spaced wires of the fence panel 65. Thesections 240 and 245 may be permanently mountedin engagement with thepanel wires (such as by welding or other affixation to each other or tothe wires), or may be temporarily, removably assembled on the wires. Byway of an example of the latter, a connecting member (not shown, butpreferably similar to the connection device 340 in FIG. 22), such as abolt, rivet, or similar device, can be assembled through the holes 241,243 through the sections 240, 245, thereby preferably connecting thefirst section 240 and the second section 245 together around the panelwires and thereby securing the first component 170 to a portion of thefence panel 65. As another method of more permanent affixation, thesections 240, 245 could be joined by a rivet through the holes 241, 243.

Although simpler engagement/joining elements can be utilized within theinvention, additional flexibility can be provided with preferredengagement/joining structures and methods. For example, returning now toFIGS. 14 and 15, the first housing 200 of the first component 170 andthe second housing 210 of the second component 180 are each preferablytubular in shape and each preferably have a substantially smooth end260, and a toothed/ridged end 265 opposite the smooth end 260. Byassembling the engagement/joining elements in an orientation so thatadjacent toothed/ridged ends 265 engage each other and are boltedtogether with bolt 190 (FIG. 15( a)), the joined panels will not rotatewith respect to each other—instead, the teeth on the opposing panel'sjoining elements prevent turning or rotation of the housings withrespect to each other, around the bolt 190. To provide rotation, allthat is required is that the joining elements be positioned so thattheir opposites ends (smooth ends 260) abut each other when boltedtogether with the bolt 190. Assuming that the bolt 190 and nut 300 arenot assembled too tightly or alternatively by using a joining devicesuch as hinge pin 191, the smooth surfaces 260 preferably permit desiredrotation of the panels or other elements with respect to each other.

In other words, selective attachment of the first housing 200 to thesecond housing 210 so that their respective smooth ends 260 abut eachother preferably provides rotational attachment of the first panel 175with respect to the second panel 185. Alternatively, selectiveattachment of the first housing 200 to the second housing 210 so thattheir respective ridged ends 265 abut each other preferably providesnon-rotatable attachment of the first panel 175 to the second panel 185.

As used herein, “smooth ends” is a broad term used to denote twocorresponding surfaces capable of being connected together to provideselective rotatable attachment of the first panel 175 to the secondpanel 185 and not necessarily a physical characteristic of the surfaces.For example, persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand thatsuch smooth ends may include relatively unfinished, roughened, ortextured metal-to-metal contact. Furthermore, such rotatable attachmentmay be accomplished by ball bearings positioned within recesses ofcorresponding surfaces, or lubricated surfaces in a slidablerelationship to each other.

Likewise, the selective non-rotatable attachment of the first panel 175to the second panel 185 may be accomplished by means other than therespective toothed/ridged ends shown in the drawings. For example, acotter pin (not shown) may be inserted into one of a plurality of holesprovided in one or more of the housings.

As shown in FIG. 13, rotatable attachment between components of thejoining device 160 may be used to join a fence panel 305 (sidewall) to agate or door 310 in a hinge-like fashion. In this regard, the joiningdevice 160 acting as a hinge provides a rotatable relationship betweenat least two adjacent panels 305 and 310. Depending on designconsiderations, the gate or door 310 may include stiffeningportions/features as described herein, or the door may include a pipeframe similar to those used in known fence systems. FIG. 21 illustratesanother preferably hinged engagement.

On the other hand, non-rotatable attachment between components of thejoining device 160 may be used to join adjacent fence panels in asubstantially fixed position relative to each other. For example, asalso shown in FIG. 13, each fence panel of the enclosure (such as panel305) may be fixedly attached such as by corner assemblies 275 to anadjacent fence panel 277 in a non-rotatable relationship. Thus, amongthe wide variety of assemblies that can be made using the invention, thesame preferred engagement/joining elements can be readily orientedwithin the assembly in a variety of ways to permit a user to selectivelyassemble at least one of the panels (such as sidewall 305) non-rotatablyto at least one adjacent sidewall 277, and also rotatably attach thatsidewall 305 to a gate or door 310 within the panel. Persons of ordinaryskill in the art will understand that, for other embodiments, it may bemore useful to have one or more hinged engagements at the corners of anassembly such as shown in FIG. 13, and “fix” or “lock” the engagementbetween the gate 310 and the panel 305, or use some other mix of thosevarious engagements.

The joining device 160 also preferably further permits at least twoadjacent fence panels 65 to be affixed to each other in a wide varietyof selected patterns. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, a plurality offence panels are affixed in a serpentine pattern 276 (persons ofordinary skill in the art will understand that as few as two panelscould be used to form such a pattern). Depending on the application, aserpentine or similar pattern, such as shown in FIG. 19, may needlittle, if any, auxiliary support (such as posts, anchors, or the likeinto the ground or a support base), but instead may be sufficientlysturdy to remain upright and erected by using the joining device 160 tofixedly secure the fence panels together.

Some parameters for the patterns that may be selected using thepreferred embodiment of the invention are shown in FIG. 20, in which oneembodiment having a particular distance between sides of a bend definedby a distance “B” and angles A1 and A2, adjacent panels connected by ajoining device/member 160 are capable of being rotated and affixed toeach other in an angled relationship anywhere along arc “A”.Accordingly, persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand thatadjacent fence panels may be connected such that the panels arepositioned at angles greater than or less than those shown in FIGS. 19and 20 by varying one or more of the aforementioned dimensions “B” andangles A1 and A2 to form a variety of patterns.

Returning once again to FIG. 15( a), in one embodiment, the connectingdevice 190 preferably includes a head 280, a body 285 extending from thehead 280 and terminating a predetermined distance from the head 280 toform a shoulder 290 to support the first housing 200 or the secondhousing 210, a threaded shaft 295 extending from the shoulder 290capable of passing through the first housing 200 and the second housing210, and a correspondingly threaded nut 300 for removable attachment tothe threaded shaft 295 to secure the first housing 200 to the secondhousing 210.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the connecting device 190permits one or more panels 65 to be elevated relative to the ground atleast the distance from the head 280 to the shoulder 290 when theconnecting device 190 passes up through the first housing 200 and thesecond housing 210 (thus, the bolt 190 can serve as a “post” on whichthe assembled panels rest, with the head 280 oriented downwardly tocontact the ground, floor, or other surface). Alternatively, with thehead 280 oriented upwardly (toward the top of the panels), theconnecting device 190 permits positioning of one or more panels 65 onthe ground when the connecting device 190 passes down through the firsthousing 200 and the second housing 210.

FIG. 21 shows a generally planar fence section 65 similar in manyrespects to sidewall 175, 185 of FIG. 13. The fence of FIG. 21preferably is formed by spaced-apart wires 10, 15 and has at least twonon-parallel bends 80, 85 deforming the fence section from the generallyplanar surface 70. Two panels of the invention preferably are connectedby joining devices to form at least a sidewall 305 having a gate or door310 formed therein. In this regard, FIG. 21 illustrates the preferredplacement of the joining device of FIG. 15 for connecting adjacent fencepanels in a non-rotating relationship. In addition, FIG. 21 illustratesthe preferred placement of the joining device of FIG. 14, for connectingadjacent fence panels in a rotating hinge-like relationship of the typetypically used to connect a sidewall 305 to a gate or door 310.

Furthermore, FIG. 21 illustrates one embodiment of a latch assembly 315,shown in greater detail in FIG. 22, that may be used to secure the gateor door 310 to the sidewall 305 in a closed position. As shown in FIG.22, the latch assembly 315 preferably includes a first section 320 and asecond section 325 (although, like the various engagement/panelconnectors discussed above, it could take any suitable form and beconnected to the panel in any suitable manner). In the embodiment ofFIG. 22, each section 320, 325 preferably has appropriately spacedgrooves 330(a)-(b), 335(a)-(b) (similar to the connector of FIG. 18) toreceive correspondingly spaced wires of the fence panel 65. A connectiondevice 340, such as a bolt, rivet, or similar device, preferablyconnects the first section 320 to the second section 325, therebysecuring the latch 315 to the fence panel 65. Any suitable engagementlatch (such as a latch having tines 331 and a gripping portion 333) canbe retained within the latch assembly and operated to selectively (a)hold the door/gate in alignment (closed) with the surrounding frame or(b) allow it to swing freely. The gripping portion 333 may be lifted upand rotated back to allow the tines 331 to disengage from the stiffeningbend 80.

The versatility of the preferred embodiments of the invention's fencepanels and joining device(s) permit formation of a wide variety ofstructural formations. In one example, as indicated above, the fencepanels may be joined to adjacent panels in a serpentine pattern 276.Alternatively, a gate or door 310 may be formed and rotatably attachedto a fence panel sidewall 305, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 21. The gate ordoor 310 may be elevated or spaced upwardly within the opening 176 by anappropriate structural arrangement of the joining devices 160 relativeto the first housing 200 and the second housing 210. On the other hand,the gate or door 310 may be elevated by any other suitable means,including (by way of example and not by way of limitation) the additionof a riser 345, as will now be described. For embodiments without anysuch riser/spacer 345, the door or gate normally just needs to be“elevated” enough to provide clearance from the ground (or floor orother underlying surface) to permit desired swinging or rotation of thegate/door with respect to the adjacent panel(s). Persons of ordinaryskill in the art will understand that pet doors or the like may also behinged along the top side of a panel, rather than from the side, asshown in the various figures herein.

FIG. 23 shows the preferred cuts, weld, and bend points on a fence panel65 for the embodiment of a riser 345, such as that shown in FIG. 14. Asin other figures described above, preferred bend locations are shown bydashed lines. Alternative riser embodiments and joining deviceconnectivity is shown in FIGS. 24-25.

FIG. 24 shows a riser tube 345 that may be formed from metal, plastic,wood, or similar materials positioned and connected to the joiningdevice 190 in a non-rotating manner (by engagement of teeth; in otherembodiments, this connection could be provided as confronting smoothsurfaces that would make the joint rotatable). A joining device 160 isshown connecting a sidewall 305 to a gate or door 310 in a rotatingmanner.

FIG. 25 shows the preferred positioning of the joining devices shown inFIG. 24 and the preferred positioning of the riser 345 relative to asidewall 305 and gate or door 310. Persons of ordinary skill in the artwill understand that other positioning and connectivity arrangements arepossible without deviating from the teachings of the invention, asdescribed herein.

Other of the many examples of joining device embodiments for joiningtogether adjacent fence panels of the invention include those shown inFIGS. 26( a)-(b) and 27-28. For example, a joining device for joiningfence panels, as described herein, to a post or frame structure is shownin FIG. 26( a)-(b). The joining device of FIGS. 26( a)-(b) permitsadjacent fence panels to attach to each other in a variety of patterns,as described above. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 26( a), theparallel portions 400 of the joining device can be inserted aroundopposite sides of a panel and joined by bolts, rivets, or other means,such as through hole 403. In FIG. 26( b), two brace halves 401 and 402can be placed on opposite sides of a panel and joined by interlockingtab 405 and by bolts, rivets or other means, such as through holes 403(as described above). The brace 400 and two halves 401 and 402preferably are configured to form a circular or other suitable opening404 in which a pole or post or other support member can be positioned tohold the fence panel upright or in another desired configuration. FIG.26( a) can be used to join a single panel to a post, while FIG. 26( b)can be used to join multiple panels to a post/pole.

The joining device of FIGS. 27-28 permits adjacent fence panels to bejoined in a generally straight line (FIG. 27) or at an angle to eachother (FIG. 28). The latter might be used, for example, at a corner ofan enclosure. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand thatthe general operation and assembly of the devices of FIGS. 27 and 28preferably are similar to that described above in connection with FIG.18 (bolting or otherwise affixing two halves to selected locations onthe wire panel, etc.).

FIGS. 29( a)-(b) illustrate yet another alternative joining device.These include exemplary brackets 355(a)-(b) that may be joined to thefence panel via an interference/friction fit, rather than by bolting orotherwise fastening two halves of a brace or bracket to the fence panel.In FIGS. 29( a)-(b), the brackets 355(a)-(b) can be inserted into thepanel at approximately a forty-five degree angle (not shown) to thewires 10, 15, and then the brackets 355(a)-(b) can be rotated into aposition parallel to the main plane 70 of the panel (such as shown inFIG. 29( a)), until the brackets 355(a)-(b) are locked into place. Inother words, the brackets 355(a)-(b) may be popped securely into placebetween the spaced-apart wires 10, 15 of the panel 65. By forming thebrackets 355(a)-(b) with appropriate dimensions (corresponding to thespacing of wires within the panel), the slots/edges 356, 357, 358, 359can be frictionally, and/or otherwise interferingly, engaged with wiressuch as wires 361-364.

Likewise, the joining device shown in FIGS. 34( a)-(h) is done viainsertion of the joining device 500 between the spaced-apart wires 10,15. As shown in those figures the joining device is inserted so as tocontact the spaced-apart wire 505 that forms the top of the bend. Inthis manner the joining device 500 may strengthen the bend 80, 85 byreducing the bend's tendency to flex open or closed.

Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand that any desiredelement can be formed on the other end of the joining/engagementelements 355, 500, including a post/pole receiver 365 (FIG. 29( a)), atoothed/smooth tubular portion 366 (FIG. 29( b)), otherfriction/interfering structures (like that of (FIG. 29( a or b)), any ofthe other connectors described herein, or any other desired structures.

Other joining members 505, 506 may be configured or adapted to join withthe first bend 80, the second bend 85, or V-shaped insert 155. Attachingor securing the joining member 505, 506 to the bend 80, 85, or insert155 may be accomplished in a variety of methods including the use of abolt 507 and nut 508 shown in FIGS. 36( c) and 36(d).

The alternative embodiment of FIG. 30 shows further extensions andbending of the fence panel 65 to form a substantially cylindrical endunit 360 that may be used to house or connect the panel to a pipe orpipe segments, or act as a protective barrier. Among other things, thecoiled end portion may be coupled and/or interwoven with another likecoiled portion on a similar piece of fencing. In one embodiment, asingle pole may be positioned through coils or similar elements on bothfence panels at the same time to “lock”, or otherwise assemble, thepieces to each other (depending on the application and configuration ofthe coupling, the joint between panels can provide pivoting or befixed). Persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand that theend(s) of the invention's fence panel may be bent into any number ofconfigurations as may be needed to satisfy virtually any residential orcommercial application.

As mentioned above, although the invention primarily has been describedand illustrated as having bends positioned at or near the edge of thefence panel, persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand thatthe bends and “heavier gauge” wires of the invention can be located atany suitable position on the fence panel, including (by way of exampleand not by way of limitation) through the middle of the panel, and/orwith multiple bends (generally parallel with each other or otherwise)spaced across a single panel at desired regular or irregular intervals.In that regard, persons of ordinary skill in the art also willunderstand that the heavier wires preferably are positioned within themesh at those locations at which the bends are located (to furtherincrease the strength of the panel), but they could be located elsewherewithin the panel (other than at the bend locations) or could be left outentirely for panels to be used in less demanding applications.

Methods of the invention include not only the various manufacturingmethods described above, but also methods of selecting and assemblingthe various components discussed herein, into any of the wide variety ofassemblies in which the invention can be practiced. Further methodsinclude methods of crowd control, methods of animal control, methods ofproviding safety or security, or the like, using the apparatus of theinvention. Steps for such methods include, by way of example and not byway of limitation, providing at least one panel of the invention,operatively positioning it for the desired purpose and application,engaging it to another element or another panel to help maintain it inits desired position, and other steps. For many applications, theinvention will provide much simpler inventory, assembly, and breakdownof temporary or “semi-permanent” fencing than can be accomplished withprior art approaches.

Although the method of the present invention is described herein asoccurring in a certain order, the specific order of the steps, or anycontinuation or interruption between steps, is not required.

The apparatus and methods of the present invention have been describedwith some particularity, but the specific designs, constructions andsteps disclosed are not to be taken as delimiting of the invention.Obvious modifications will make themselves apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art, all of which will not depart from the essence of theinvention and all such changes and modifications are intended to beencompassed within the appended claims.

1-71. (canceled)
 72. A mesh fence panel having at least two elongatedand intersecting stiffening deformations formed therein, at least one ofsaid stiffening deformations including a first deformation out of agenerally planar surface formed by a body portion of the panel and asecond deformation returning back toward that generally planar surface.73. A fence panel including: a) a generally planar central surfaceformed by a plurality of wires forming a mesh; b) at least twonon-parallel stiffening portions integral with the surface, saidportions and said surface configured to nest with similarly sized andsimilarly shaped panels; and c) one of said stiffening portionsincluding an elongated insert, the insert operatively affixed toselected wires of said mesh.
 74. A plurality of fence panels: a) each ofsaid panels being similarly sized and shaped and nestable with others ofsaid panels; b) each of said panels including at least two non-parallelstiffening portions nestable with corresponding portions on other suchpanels; and c) at least one of said stiffening portions of each of saidpanels including a generally elongated deformation in a generally planarwire mesh section of said panel, said deformation including wires thatare both (1) bent out of the plane of the generally planar wire meshsection and (2) bent back toward the plane of the generally planar wiremesh section.
 75. The plurality of fence panels of claim 74, at leastone of said stiffening portions of each of said panels including anelongated insert that includes a generally V-shaped cross-section. 76.The fence panel of claim 73, in which said insert includes a generallyV-shaped cross-section.
 77. The fence panel of claim 73, in which saidinsert includes a generally W-shaped cross-section.
 78. The fence panelof claim 73, in which said insert includes a generally U-shapedcross-section.
 79. The fence panel of claim 73, in which said insertincludes a generally trapezoidal-shaped cross-section.